Textures used for this scene are very basic using diffuse, specular and bump channels (Fig.12).

Fig. 12

Post-production

Fig.13 shows the raw render (above) and final render (below). Post-production was done in Photoshop. The first step was mixing the rendered channels (reflection, GI, light) to get the best result. I usually apply the channels on Linear Dodge or Overlay blending mode.

Fig. 13

After enhancing reflections and light in the places where I wanted to get more intense result, it was time to play with the levels and color balance. Since I had a reference photo I knew what effect I should achieve so it was a lot easier. The final touch was done using the Nik Software Color Efex Pro. I used the Pro Contrast and Tonal Contrast filters.

Conclusion

So that's it. I encourage you to work on personal projects like this one when you have free time. It really pays off in the future since it's the best way to improve your skills. I hope you found my Making Of useful and learned something from my work.

(ID: 48396, pid: 0) Derek on Fri, 19 August 2011 9:39am I definitely like the finished result, but you could use some gamma correction on the photos. They look a bit washed out. But other than that, excellent.

(ID: 48244, pid: 0) Jasam2 on Wed, 17 August 2011 7:39am Hey Macieju!
Bravo. It's great to see how skillful you are with your toys :) I wonder when are you going to show everyone what you're still hiding on your computer... Remember: wzi??by? si? do roboty zamiast sta? przy oknie!